Cambodia's first security guard service commenced operations in July. The Royal Guard

Force, a subsidiary of Royal Cambodia Company Ltd., currently has 42 guards trained

for service.

All guards have received training in self-defence. Four have black belts in karate

and the entire corps has been trained in kick-boxing.

Guards, who are available for home and business protection, carry radios, night sticks,

and handcuffs. Permission is being sought to carry firearms and stun guns.

Guard training is overseen by Major S.A. Ahmed (Ret.), a Bangladeshi who served in

the Bangladesh army. He has been trained extensively in security-related activities,

and maintained responsibilities in his home country for planning against sabotage.

The service provides 24-hour protection, using three shifts of eight hours each.

All guards are uniformed. The company has secured one contract and is in the process

of negotiating the final details for several others.

Royal Guard Force's parent firm is chaired by a Cambodian, Kith Sophan. Their offices

are located on the 6th floor, 264 Achar Mean Blvd.